Harford County Criminal Defense Lawyer
When you face charges in Harford County, a Criminal Defense Lawyer from Scrofano Law PC offers resources and representation. Call us to learn your options.
Defending Criminal Charges in Harford County
If you are arrested and charged in Harford County for a crime, you must obtain a free consultation with a successful criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience representing clients facing criminal charges similar to those you are charged with. Your freedom and reputation may be on the line. A competent Maryland criminal lawyer can review your case and help protect your rights throughout the legal process.
At Scrofano MD Criminal Law, we are dedicated to providing our clients with aggressive criminal defense strategies tailored to their individual criminal charges. Our team of attorneys has over 25 years of combined experience and have represented clients charged with crimes ranging from misdemeanors in Harford County Maryland to felonies in the state of Maryland and in federal court. Contact us for a free consultation.
How a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Harford County, MD, Helps Clients
You can learn more about your rights under the law from a criminal defense attorney. In order to protect these rights, they will file motions on your behalf, provide the best defense possible, and negotiate with the prosecutor for a lesser sentence or alternative punishment whenever possible.
The criminal defense lawyer will also focus on developing a strong defense strategy tailored to get positive results for their client, regardless of the criminal charge they are facing at trial.
For a free consultation regarding any criminal matters you need assistance with, contact Scrofano Law.
Types of Charges Handled by Harford County Criminal Lawyers
Paolo Gnocchi of Scrofano Law can help clients charged with a variety of crimes, including the following:
Assault and Battery
Assault is the threat of physical personal injury to another person, while battery involves causing personal injury or offensive touching to someone without their consent. Both charges are criminal offenses that carry severe penalties if convicted in a court in the Northern District, including jail time, fines, and probation, which will depend on the severity of the offense committed.
DUI or DWI
The criminal offense of driving under the influence (DUI) and/or driving while intoxicated/impaired (DWI) covers all dangerous driving impairments caused by alcohol, drugs, or other controlled substances. Under Maryland law, a person who has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher is considered under the influence of alcohol.
Drug Crimes
Any crime that involves manufacturing, distributing, or using drugs classified by the U.S. government as illegal substances with abuse potential is considered a drug crime. A variety of illegal drugs are classified as having abuse potential, including cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and amphetamines.
Domestic Violence
Often called “domestic violence” or “intimate partner violence,” domestic abuse involves gaining or maintaining power and control over a partner within a relationship. An individual may be abused physically, sexually, emotionally, economically, or psychologically through actions or threats.
We can also defend people accused of theft, prostitution, weapons offenses, and fake ID crimes.
The heavy penalties associated with criminal convictions, such as jail time, fines, and reputational damage, can significantly affect your life. Defending and protecting your rights in a United States district court requires the help of a premium criminal lawyer from a top-rated law firm.
What Happens After an Arrest in Maryland?
Police departments in Maryland follow the arrest procedures set forth under the Maryland Criminal Code.
After you are arrested, you will be arraigned. The arraignment process in Maryland involves a judge informing the defendant of their rights prior to trial, including the criminal charges the defendant is facing, the maximum penalties, and their right to counsel. Bail may also be set by the judge at the arraignment.
After the charges are read, the accused must enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. If you plead guilty, sentencing will occur, and the judge will determine the punishment. Upon pleading not guilty, a trial date will be scheduled in a local or district court, where the state’s attorney will present evidence, and the defense attorney will respond. Upon deliberation, the jury will reach a verdict based on the evidence and statements presented in court.
Having a Maryland criminal lawyer with experience dealing with criminal legal proceedings is crucial to ensuring the defendant’s rights are protected at every step.
Call Scrofano Law to schedule a free case evaluation with a seasoned attorney.
How Can a Defense Lawyer Help in a Criminal Case?
A qualified attorney will be able to review all evidence available, challenge any procedures that may have been violated during the investigation or arrest process, negotiate plea deals and check the Maryland criminal records for their clients if necessary. They also provide much-needed support throughout the proceedings, ensuring that rights are respected along the way!
Additionally, they will work closely with prosecutors to determine the best possible outcome for the defendant, given the circumstances involved. Hence, hiring a competent lawyer that understands both sides of the law is essential to get good results.
What are the three systems of indigent defense lawyers?
- Individually appointed private counsel by the court represent an indigent defendant in this system. The defense lawyer is typically paid through public funds and provides legal services at no cost or reduced fees for those who cannot afford it.
- A Public Defenders office represents defendants determined by the court to be unable to pay for their counsel due to poverty-level income. It consists of lawyers employed full-time by government agencies whose primary purpose is to provide legal representation for indigent defendants.
- Non-profit attorney groups provide legal representation for those unable to afford it. They typically receive funding from government agencies or private foundations and offer free services to those who need assistance with their criminal cases.
How much will hiring a local criminal defense lawyer cost in Maryland?
What it costs to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Maryland varies and depends on the type and complexity of your case. However, some attorneys may offer reduced rates based on individual circumstances, so discussing payment options with any potential attorney you are considering before making the final decision is essential.
Scrofano Law, At Your Service
Don’t hesitate to contact Scrofano MD Criminal Law, today if you have any criminal defense concerns in Harford County. We will evaluate your matter and propose a defense strategy that will exonerate you or reduce the charges against you in court.
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We fight for your rights!
Paolo Gnocchi is an excellent attorney. He offered sound advice and thoroughly explained the court process. If you are looking for professional representation and a reliable attorney that will advocate for you, Paolo is your guy. Joseph Scrofano and his team are all dedicated individuals. Hopefully I never need a criminal defense attorney again LOL, but if I do, Scrofano Law would be my choice!
Paolo and this firm are top notch. They need to be thankful to have him on the team. Can’t put into words how amazing Paolo was and how thankful I am. He fought for me and succeeded. 5 stars!
Joe is amazing! Here’s the hard truth:
- 99% of cases that go court in DC end in convictions
- Last year there were 120 cases in DC and the conviction rate was 100%
Here is the good news, Joe represents people in DC and knows what he is doing! When I was charged with a crime that I didn’t commit, Joe went to work. Three years, a grueling court case, and one long battle later, I got to hear the words, “not guilty!” Joe didn’t just collect a retainer and show up on court date. He scrutinized every document in the case, subpoenaed the information he needed, and presented a perfect case of facts!
When you need someone that will fight for you and can actually win, Joe is the guy!!